Negotiating feels like learning to cook for yourself for the first time. It’s messy & intimidating but so rewarding when you finally nail it! By the time we hit our thirties, most of us have had to negotiate for something, like a raise at work or a better deal on a car. And that’s why understanding some smart negotiation tactics is so important. Here are eleven tactics you should know by 30 to make sure you get what you want—and deserve.
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Know Your Worth
Before you even start talking numbers or terms, you need to know what you’re bringing to the table. Do some homework to figure out what your skills, experience, or whatever you’re negotiating about is worth. Being clear on your value makes sure that you start the negotiation from a position of strength. That’ll likely make things go in your favor!
Aim High, but Be Realistic
Your opening offer is essentially like your first bid in a game of poker. You want to start strong but not so outlandish that everyone folds & walks away. To do so, set a high but realistic starting point because it’ll give you wiggle room to come down a bit—and still end up where you want to be. There’s a fine line between being ambitious and keeping your feet on the ground.
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Use Silence as a Tool
Silence makes everyone uncomfortable so use this to your advantage during negotiations. After you’ve made your point or offer, be quiet and let the silence do the work. Most of the time, the other person will start talking to fill the void and this could make them reveal more than they intended. They might even make concessions. Whatever happens, don’t feel like you have to keep talking.
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Likewise, getting the other person to talk more gives you valuable information so ask questions that can’t be answered with a simple yes or no. The more they talk, the more you learn about their priorities, concerns—and where there might be room for compromise. Negotiations should be a dialogue instead of a tug-of-war. In doing so, you’ll likely find solutions that weren’t obvious at the start.
Always Have a BATNA
While BATNA sounds like an exotic fruit, it’s actually your Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement. Basically, it’s your plan B. Having a good backup plan gives you the confidence to push for what you want because you’re not backed into a corner. You’re much less likely to make bad decisions this way and things should go how you want them to.
Frame Your Offers Around Their Gain
People love to know what’s in it for them. When you’re making your case, spin it so it highlights the benefits for the other party, as making the other person see the perks will make your offer a lot more attractive. You wouldn’t choose a deal that doesn’t help you out and you should expect the other person to do the same. Instead, make it clear they’ll profit from this agreement as much as you are.
Build Rapport
Nobody wants to negotiate with someone they don’t get along with. Take a few minutes to talk & connect on a personal level because it’ll start things off on a friendly note. Both parties should feel comfortable and understood. Try showing genuine interest in the person across from you not just the deal at hand—you’re more likely to find common ground. Of course, you don’t have to become best friends, just friendly enough to make things work out.
Master the Art of Timing
Timing is one of the most important negotiation skills. For example, if you’re asking for a raise, maybe don’t do it right after the company announces budget cuts. Instead, picking the right moment to make your move greatly increases your chances of success. You’ll need to be attuned to the other person’s mood and the overall atmosphere. Don’t forget about broader timing considerations, too, like financial cycles or personal milestones.
Prepare to Compromise
Negotiation is a two-way street and being ready to give a little to get a little is part of the game. Before you start, think about what you’re willing to budge on—but don’t make it immediately obvious to them. When you know in advance where you’re flexible, you’ll be able to steer the negotiation so it feels like a win for both sides. Doing so can make even the most difficult of negotiations into opportunities for building stronger relationships.
Use Non-Verbal Cues
A lot of communication is non-verbal and strong eye contact, nodding & keeping an open posture all send positive signals during a negotiation. These cues show you’re engaged and open to finding a solution. Equally, being aware of the other person’s body language will help you understand their intentions. Are they closed off & defensive or open & receptive? Whatever they’re doing, you’ll need to adjust your approach on the fly to make your negotiations more effective.
Don’t Fear Walking Away
Sometimes, the best deal you’ll get is the one you walk away from. If the terms aren’t right and there’s no budging, be ready to walk because you have to respect your own limits. Never settle for less than you deserve! Rather than being a sign of weakness, it shows you’re serious about your needs & not desperate to close the deal at any cost. It’ll make the other party reconsider their position. They’ll probably come back to you with a better offer.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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